A 120-DAY nourishment program begins Monday, August 11, as a non-stock foundation and the Department of Education (DepEd) have forged an agreement to strengthen nutrition among school children in the province.
The signatories of the memorandum of agreement (MOA), signed on Friday, August 8, are officials of DepEd-Sulu and the Jesus V. Del Rosario Foundation (JVRF).
Major General Leonardo Peña, 11th Infantry Division commander, and other DepEd-Sulu officials witnessed the signing of the agreement.
The agreement will benefit 1,271 grade school students in their formative years enrolled in 14 schools in the towns of Indanan, Patikul, Omar, and Talipao.
“By ensuring proper nourishment during students’ formative years, the program seeks to improve children’s health, strengthen academic performance, and unite stakeholders in building a brighter future for Sulu,” part of the agreement stated.
Carrying the theme “Unity in Action: Serving Communities, Nurturing the Future,” the nutrition program aims to fight child hunger, strengthen nutrition, and boost school attendance—recognizing that proper nourishment during the early stages of learning is vital for long-term growth and academic success.
JVRF Executive Director Kana Manglapus and Trustee Erwin Gonda reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to empowering youth through education and nourishment.
“This initiative is rooted in our belief that no child should go to school hungry,” Manglapus said.
“By working hand in hand with the Armed Forces and local communities, we aim to bring lasting change—one meal at a time,” Manglapus added.
As the social development arm of the J-DEL Group of Companies, JVRF spearheads the project in partnership with DepEd-Sulu, local education stakeholders, and Jainab Abdulmajid, Local Champion for Sulu.
“This is more than just a feeding effort—it is a symbol of hope, healing, and human dignity,” Abdulmajid said.
Peña praised the program’s potential for lasting impact.
“This reflects our deep commitment not only to securing the province but also to uplifting the lives of its people,” Peña said.
“Nourishing the children of Sulu means nourishing the future of peace. We are proud to stand alongside JVRF, DepEd-Sulu, and our partners in this noble cause,” Peña added. (SunStar Zamboanga)